FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. -

 As the company continues to “invest significantly in automotive retail digital technology,” AutoNation has hired a chief technology officer to head up the retailer’s technology, IT development and digital platforms.

Named executive vice president and CTO, effective Oct. 31, is Tom Conophy, whose background includes time with Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Intercontinental Hotels Group and Staples in chief information officer roles.

Conophy will report to AutoNation chief executive officer and president Mike Jackson.

“We are pleased to have a technology executive of Tom's caliber join us as we continue to build the AutoNation brand and invest significantly in automotive retail digital technology,” Jackson said in a news release.

Meanwhile, senior vice president and CIO Allan Stejskal is resigning Oct. 28.

 “Allan has been a key player in the advancement of AutoNation's digital platform over the past two years. I would like to thank him for his service and commitment to the company,” Jackson said.